Just an Occasional Beer

[Dave & Diana]

I am not a big drinker, but I might want to drink a beer every once in a while. I am guessing that a drink package is probably NOT the thing for me. But, is there some other option, or do I just pay as I go? I thought that I saw something on another YouTube video that talked about a drink card you can purchase for like 10 drinks, or something like that? It sounded like something that you purchase once you are onboard the ship. Any advice from past cruisers? D&D

[USCG Teacher]

The drink cards are really hit or miss, and lately much more miss than hit.  Generally they only come out if they're trying to boost revenue from drink sales.  If your primary drink is beer and you only have two or three a day, the Deluxe Package is almost certainly not for you.

[ChessE4]

9 minutes ago, Dave & Diana said:

I am not a big drinker, but I might want to drink a beer every once in a while. I am guessing that a drink package is probably NOT the thing for me. But, is there some other option, or do I just pay as I go? I thought that I saw something on another YouTube video that talked about a drink card you can purchase for like 10 drinks, or something like that? It sounded like something that you purchase once you are onboard the ship. Any advice from past cruisers? D&D

You'll want to go a la carte per@USCG Teacher .  The drink cards that I have seen have been offered mid-cruise, and you need to drink a lot in a few days to get your $$ worth.  As you gain Crown and Anchor status, you'll see some promotions on your Seapass, like 2-for-1 beer, wine, or soda or perhaps 10% off....Then there are the many opportunities for cheap or free drinks, like welcome celebrations, art shows, $2 mimosas in the Casino, etc.  Some travel agents will give you something on Day 1, so if you have one, ask for beer!  Have a great cruise!

PS.  I did note on the Harmony that domestic beer in the pub was more expensive than imported beer, not sure why.

[Dave & Diana]

7 minutes ago, USCG Teacher said:

The drink cards are really hit or miss, and lately much more miss than hit.  Generally they only come out if they're trying to boost revenue from drink sales.  If your primary drink is beer and you only have two or three a day, the Deluxe Package is almost certainly not for you.

Are the drink cards what I think I remember hearing about them then? The card is good for a number of drinks for that purchase price (I think I saw them for like $89.95 for 10 drinks).

[Dave & Diana]

2 minutes ago, ChessE4 said:

You'll want to go a la carte per@USCG Teacher .  The drink cards that I have seen have been offered mid-cruise, and you need to drink a lot in a few days to get your $$ worth.  As you gain Crown and Anchor status, you'll see some promotions on your Seapass, like 2-for-1 beer, wine, or soda or perhaps 10% off....Then there are the many opportunities for cheap or free drinks, like welcome celebrations, art shows, $2 mimosas in the Casino, etc.  Some travel agents will give you something on Day 1, so if you have one, ask for beer!  Have a great cruise!

PS.  I did note on the Harmony that domestic beer in the pub was more expensive than imported beer, not sure why.

I'm just thinking i might want a beer at a meal, once in a while. So, your idea is probably best.

[Srp431]

13 minutes ago, Dave & Diana said:

Are the drink cards what I think I remember hearing about them then? The card is good for a number of drinks for that purchase price (I think I saw them for like $89.95 for 10 drinks).

10 drinks for $89.95 or so was the price on our last cruise, they are usually offered midcruise and can be purchased at the bar. For light drinkers like my wife and I, its a good deal, since we can share the drink card.

[CGTLH]

1 hour ago, ChessE4 said:

PS.  I did note on the Harmony that domestic beer in the pub was more expensive than imported beer, not sure why.

Size of bottles... The domestics were normally 16oz while the imports were typically 12oz.

[twangster]

Drink cards are hit and miss and sometimes don't appear until near the end of the cruise, like the second last day.

At the price point for the 10 drink card they usually don't make sense for beer.  It's the same or cheaper just to buy a beer.  These cards are meant for wine or cocktails.

Sometimes the smaller ships offer a 10 draft beer card for $49 plus 18% gratuity.  I saw this on my last cruise but the draft options are often very limited like just Heineken.